Rosalynn Carter, beloved wife of 39th President Jimmy Carter, has died at the age of 96 in the comfort of her Georgia home. Her hospice journey began Friday, when she accompanied her 99-year-old husband for her end-of-life care at her beloved one-story home in Plains. This home was a witness to Jimmy Carter’s love and life even before he became a Georgia state senator in 1962.
Last February, the former president himself made the difficult decision to decline further medical intervention and receive palliative care due to health concerns. Today, we mourn the loss of an outstanding woman and express our solidarity and support for President Carter during this difficult time.
A Life of Propaganda and Activism
Rosalynn Carter was more than a first lady. Throughout her husband’s political career and beyond, she remained a loyal and dedicated ally, advocating for mental health and social justice. His passion for these causes has given voice to the vulnerable and marginalized and has had a lasting impact on our country. Eleanor Rosalyn Smith was born in August 1927 in the quiet town of Plains, Georgia. Rosalynn Carter shared her place of birth with her beloved husband. Having grown up in a close-knit community of less than 600 people, she understood the importance of community and has exemplified it throughout her life.
Rosalynn Carter Caregiver Association: A Legacy of Compassion
In 1987, Rosalynn Carter founded the Rosalynn Carter Caregivers Association, an organization dedicated to supporting and empowering people who care for others. Through the Institute, she has recognized the great challenges that caregivers face in their dedicated roles and has provided valuable resources and services to caregivers. In her later years, she remained active within the organization, leading by example and inspiring others to make a difference.
Breaking the stigma: Rosalynn Carter’s mental health advocacy
Known as one of the nation’s leading mental health advocates, Rosalynn Carter fearlessly fought her stigma surrounding her mental health issues. She found that stigma often acts as a barrier, preventing individuals and their families from seeking the support and care they desperately need. Her work has sparked important conversations in homes and clinics across the country, raising awareness and encouraging others to break down the walls of prejudice.
Overall approach to service
Rosalynn Carter, along with her husband, was also an active supporter of Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing housing to people in need. Together, they gathered information and funds for the Carter Work Project, named in their honor. Their dedication to service goes beyond just fundraising, often dedicating time and effort to serving as exemplary “volunteer practitioner builders.”
A journey full of love and tradition
Rosalyn and Jimmy Carter’s love story began long before they were in the spotlight. The two first met during Jimmy Carter’s time at the Naval Academy in Maryland during World War II. Their love deepened and they exchanged vows in 1946, beginning a life filled with shared dreams and accomplishments.
After living together, they raised four children: Jack, Chip, James, and Amy. Their sons were already adults when Jimmy Carter became president, but their youngest, Amy, captured the nation’s hearts as one of the most famous children in the White House.
In memory of a wonderful woman
Rosalynn Carter will forever be remembered as a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to compassion, advocacy, and service. She left behind an inspiring legacy for future generations. As we say goodbye to this extraordinary man, let us honor his memory by continuing his legacy and fighting for a more caring and inclusive world.
